There is one way of breathing that is shameful and constricted.​
Then, there’s another way:​
a breath of love that takes you all the way to infinity
​​
- Rumi
Reichian Breathwork
Reichian Breathwork Therapy (based on the work of Wilhelm Reich) is a somatic approach to releasing long-held stress, unprocessed emotions, and trauma stored in the body as chronic muscular tension—what Reich called “armoring.” This armoring can disconnect us from our own sensations, emotions, and vitality, leaving us feeling stuck in our heads, “going through the motions” in life, or like we’re not fully ourselves.
​
Over time, these patterns of holding create rigidity in both body and mind. They can manifest as chronic stress, anxiety, depression, pain, numbness, low libido, reduced pleasure, and even physical health issues like inflammation, fatigue, poor digestion, and lowered immunity. When the body stays in a prolonged state of contraction, its natural rhythm of expansion and contraction—the pulsation essential for health and vitality—becomes disrupted at even the cellular level.
Reichian breathwork gently works with these patterns through guided breathing and somatic release. As muscular holding and restricted breathing soften, the diaphragm and core musculature regain freedom of movement. This helps regulate the nervous system, restoring healthy vagal tone, improving circulation, and allowing energy and sensation to flow more freely.
​
People often describe feeling more embodied, alive, and connected to their authentic selves—as if a deeper part of them has come back online.
​
-----
​
Since 2015, Dr. Katie Bastable has trained extensively in receiving and giving Reichian Breathwork, based off of Wilhelm Reich's work, under the guidance of respected mentors Michele T. Newmark, Dr. Siri Gian Singh, and Dr. Mia Curcuruto, adding a powerful dimension to her holistic practice.
The Benefits of This Work
01
Natural Pulsation
Reichian therapy helps restore the body’s natural rhythm of expansion and contraction—known as pulsation. By softening chronic muscular tension and freeing restricted breathing, it supports nervous system regulation, healthy vagal tone, and improved circulation, allowing energy and vitality to return to the whole body.
03
Emotional Release and Healing
Allows access to and processing of repressed emotions (grief, anger, or fear) that may be trapped in the body. It discharges pent up energy in the body not fully expressed in physical exercise.
05
Reduced Muscle Tension & Pain
Releases chronic tension stored in muscles and joints, improving mobility and reducing pain. Breathwork can also promote better posture, as it relaxes areas like the chest, shoulders, and neck where tension, or pent up emotional energy, is often held.
07
Trauma & PTSD Recovery
Used as a therapeutic tool for individuals recovering from trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It helps process traumatic memories and release the physical and emotional tension associated with trauma, promoting healing.
02
Stress Reduction and Relaxation
Activates the parasympathetic nervous system (responsible for "rest and digest" functions), which reduces cortisol levels and promotes relaxation.
04
Improved Relationships
One of the powerful benefits of Reichian breathwork is that it helps people dissolve barriers within themselves and feel more open, connected, and authentic in their relationships—with partners, family, friends, and even with themselves.​
06
Improved Emotional Resilience
Enhances emotional regulation by helping individuals develop resolve and emotional awareness. It can lead to greater emotional resilience and the ability to manage stressful or difficult emotions in a healthier way.
08
Increased Pleasure
Improved blood flow to the pelvic region enhances sexual arousal and can lead to stronger, more intense sensations of pleasure. When cortisol levels drop due to stress reduction from breathwork, the body can produce more sex hormones, which may increase sexual desire. It can boost vitality, making individuals feel more sexually energized and engaged.
TESTIMONIALS
"Reichian Breathwork is changing my life, allowing me to take my power back, and giving me the courage to speak my boundaries and needs with my family.[It] is a very powerful tool that everyone should consider to free themselves of whatever is holding them back from their greatest self."
"As a patient of Dr. Bastable, I whole-heartedly believe that I would not have made the breakthroughs I needed to in order to have a free and happy life.It is transformative and freeing, which is an understatement. I feel like I am living my fullest potential and I am excited to continue the work!"